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Do you have a cherished pocket watch passed down through generations, resting in a drawer or safe? At Ironhorse Timepieces, we can transform your family heirloom into a stunning wrist watch that honors its history while making it wearable for daily life. Our meticulous conversion process preserves the original movement and dial while adapting this precious timepiece for modern wear.
Contact us with photographs and any known information about your pocket watch (brand, approximate age, family history). We'll provide an initial assessment of whether your timepiece is suitable for conversion and discuss your vision for the finished watch. Ideally, provide clear, high-quality photos of the face (dial), and critically, the rear movement with the rear case removed (this can be removed, depending on the watch itself by unscrewing it, or possibly it will snap off. Snap-off cases typically have a small lip to lift on to snap it off.
Send your pocket watch to us for comprehensive evaluation. Our expert watchmakers will assess the movement's condition, dial integrity, and restoration requirements. We'll provide a detailed proposal including restoration scope, conversion options, timeline, and pricing.
Your pocket watch movement undergoes meticulous restoration to factory specifications. This may include cleaning, replacement of worn components, jewel servicing or replacement, regulation for accuracy, and preserving or restoring the original dial while maintaining its authentic character.
We carefully remove the movement from its original pocket watch case and house it in a premium wrist watch case selected to complement your timepiece's era and style. You'll choose from sapphire crystal exhibition cases in stainless steel, brass, or bronze finishes, with options for silver or 18-karat gold plating.
Your converted watch receives a handcrafted leather strap (cowhide or exotic options available) and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure reliable timekeeping. We provide documentation of the work performed and care instructions for your treasured heirloom.
A Conversion can be expected to take several months. However, we will keep you apprised throughout the process.
Conversion pricing varies based on the watch itself and the repairs or parts - often that are hard to source - it may need outside of restoration. In addition, factors such as case material, the crystals themselves (Sapphire or mineral glass?), strap and other factors.
Contact us for a detailed quote specific to your timepiece.
Every heirloom pocket watch carries a story—perhaps it belonged to your great-grandfather who worked on the railways, or a beloved uncle who carried it through decades of life's moments. Our conversion process honors that legacy while ensuring the timepiece can be worn and appreciated by current and future generations.
We understand the emotional significance of family heirlooms. Your pocket watch will be treated with the utmost care and respect, handled by skilled watchmakers who appreciate both its mechanical beauty and sentimental value.
Will conversion damage my original pocket watch? No. The conversion process preserves the original movement and dial. While the pocket watch case is no longer used, the essential timepiece—the movement and dial—remains intact and can be returned to a pocket watch case in the future if desired.
Can the conversion be reversed? Yes. The movement can be removed from the wrist watch case and reinstalled in an appropriate pocket watch case, though this would require another conversion process.
What if my pocket watch isn't working? Non-running watches can often be restored. Our evaluation will determine if the movement can be repaired and the extent of work required.
Do you work on pocket watches from all eras? We specialize in 1880-1950 timepieces. Earlier or later pieces may be suitable—contact us to discuss.
What if my dial is damaged? Minor wear, patina, and hairline cracks can add character and are often preserved. Severely damaged dials may be restorable or, in rare cases, may require refinishing (which we avoid when possible to maintain authenticity). Dials may be replaced prior to re-casing as a wrist watch if there is extensive damage. This will be discussed with you early in the process.
Can you match my grandfather's original strap style? Yes. We can create custom leather straps to match historical styles or family preferences, using premium cowhide or exotic leathers.
Is my pocket watch valuable? We can provide information about your watch's historical significance and typical market values, though we recommend professional appraisal services for insurance purposes.
Transform your family heirloom into a wearable legacy that can be enjoyed daily while honoring its rich history.
Contact Us Today
Email: info@ironhorsewatches.com Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada
What to Include in Your Initial Inquiry:
Your name and location
Phone number and email
High-quality, clear photographs of the front dial (face) and the rear movement itself with the rear case removed.
Questions or preferences you may have for the conversion